Stars in Action

We love hearing from our Service Stars community. Thank you, Stars, for sharing your stories! What will you do next?

Alexa, 11, California

From TFK Kid Reporter Leonardo Popovic: Alexa helped save a local library. It was facing budget cuts. Alexa collected 159 signatures on a petition and presented it at a city council budget meeting.

Evan, 16, California

I founded Ivan the Angelfish, a nonprofit dedicated to improving mental health with aquariums and terrariums. They create calming spaces in nursing homes, clinics, and schools.

The Crimaldi siblings, 14–17, Florida

From their mom: When Hurricane Ian hit in 2022, siblings Jolie, Julianna, and Sam watched their parents prepare. The kids felt scared and confused. They created a program called Ready Together to get kids involved in hurricane preparedness. The goal is to help kids “feel included, informed, and supported,” Jolie says.

Alani, 15, Maryland

From Alani’s mom: Alani founded Thrifty Nifty Athletics. It’s an organization inspired by her love of soccer. She hopes to level the playing field for girls in sports, especially in underserved communities. “I love seeing the smiles on the girls’ faces, and I really enjoy helping other athletes get what they need to thrive,” Alani says.

Aarush, 11, and Aarna, 7, Wisconsin

From their mom: Aarush started a Rubik’s Cube club at his school to help students build confidence. He and his sister, Aarna, regularly volunteer at the club. They teach other kids the hobby and raise money to help kids get to cubing competitions. Aarna is starting another club at her elementary school to share the joy.

Harper, 11, California

From Harper’s mom: Harper created a project called Bracelets for Rescue Pets to benefit animals in her community. She designed, produced, and sold handmade bracelets, then donated the proceeds to help provide food, medical care, shelter, and other necessities for homeless pets.

Students at Jackson Avenue School, New York

From teacher Cailin Carlson: Our students created 70 summer swag bags for our local food pantry. They had so much fun preparing each bag, knowing it would bring a smile.

Declan Chang, 13, California

I’ve participated in Kicking for Miracles, a tae kwon do charity event, for nine years. We’ve raised more than $100,000 for health organizations. It’s incredible to see the impact our community can make.

The River Farm Park kids, 10–11, Rhode Island

From TFK reader Abigail Malgieri: Ariana, Mackenzie, Maeve, Aria, and Hannah (from left) worked together to rejuvenate River Farm Park. “Before we restored the park, it was run-down and nobody really used it,” Hannah says. “So we met with the town and told them what we wanted to do.”

Responses have been edited for length and clarity.